Newcastle United fans have been reacting to Fabricio Coloccini announcing his retirement from football today.
The Argentine defender was a brilliant servant for the Magpies, spending eight years at the club.
He arrived in 2008 from Spanish club Deportivo La Coruna to a fairly subdued reception, and he actually struggled initially at St. James’ Park.
The star didn’t have a great first season, and suffered relegation in 2009. But he helped the club bounce back at the first time of asking.
He was particularly good in the 2011/12 season, which culminated in Newcastle finishing 5th in the Premier League, and him being named in the PFA Team of the Year.
Coloccini could make errors, but fans loved his spirit and passion.
He always gave his all for the badge, and there were a few heavy hearts when he left the club in 2016 to join San Lorenzo, although it was a decision that ultimately suited all parties.
In total, Coloccini turned out 275 times for Newcastle, scoring seven goals.
The South American, who earned 38 caps for Argentina, said in an emotional post on Instagram: “I was immersed in a dream for 22 years of my life that has given me much more than I imagined.
“I fulfilled all my dreams as a soccer player, (and) know that I was happy during this trip which I would have liked never to end.”
The official Newcastle Twitter account sent a message to the 39-year-old wishing him well for his next chapter.
News of Coloccini’s retirement comes soon after Jonas Gutierrez and Demba Ba.
Newcastle fans react as Fabricio Coloccini announces retirement
On social media, many Magpies fans have been reacting to the news of Coloccini’s retirement.
There has been an outpouring of thanks and well wishes for the player.
He is clearly still very highly regarded by many Toon supporters.
He certainly gave the club many years of great service, and plenty – including Coloccini’s former teammate at Newcastle Jonas Gutierrez – are making sure he knows that.
Here were some of the comments:
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